Many clients assume Massachusetts is a “community property” state that splits marital assets on a strict 50/50 basis when a couple is divorcing. This is not the case. Instead, Massachusetts courts divide property in a manner they see as equitable or fair. Couples could end up with an even split, but the court may find […]
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Divorce After 50 (or) Divorce in Long Term Marriages in Massachusetts
Lately, “gray divorce” – when people over the age of 50 chose to officially dissolve their marriage- has become more and more common in America. In fact, baby boomers in the U.S. are now twice as likely to divorce as they were 20 years ago. Here at Koiles Pratt Divorce & Family Law in Salem, […]
Read MoreThe Impact of Spousal Desertion in Massachusetts
The term “spousal desertion” certainly has negative connotations, and it is considered grounds for fault-based divorce in Massachusetts. However, if you need to leave home because your living situation has become intolerable, the impact of your “desertion” may not be as great as you might fear—if you plan ahead. Before leaving the marital home, it […]
Read MoreNew Child Support Guidelines in Massachusetts
New child support guidelines take effect in Massachusetts on October 4, 2021. The new standards will apply to every child support order and judgment entered starting on that date and going forward. What do the new guidelines include? How could they affect your situation? Here’s a brief overview of the changes. Why the Massachusetts Child Support Guidelines […]
Read MoreHow Adultery Affects a Divorce in Massachusetts
Not too long ago, adultery was a felony offense in Massachusetts. While a cheating spouse can no longer be imprisoned for infidelity, this conduct can still have a substantial impact on a divorce case. Adultery Provides Grounds for a Fault-Based Divorce Massachusetts laws allow couples to seek divorce on several fault-based grounds or because of […]
Read MoreIs Alimony Taxable In Massachusetts?
Is alimony taxable? The short answer is that it might be. Depending on when your divorce decree or separation agreement became effective, the IRS may tax your alimony payments. Here is a guide to when alimony is taxable and when it is not taxable. How Does the IRS Define Alimony? Divorce lawyers often use the […]
Read MoreHow Retirement Affects Alimony in Massachusetts
One of the most difficult elements in any divorce is settling financial issues such as alimony. Although the party with greater earning potential may be expected to provide support to the other spouse for a time, the duration of alimony payments can be affected by many factors. How does retirement affect spousal support obligations in […]
Read MoreQuestions to Ask a Divorce Lawyer in Massachusetts
If you are considering divorce in Massachusetts, you know you are going to need legal help. The right attorney can help you walk away with the best outcome without going overboard on legal costs. To find a divorce lawyer who meets your needs, it is a good idea to ask some questions from your prospective […]
Read MoreHow Are IRAs Divided in Massachusetts?
Some of the greatest challenges in dissolving a marriage involve splitting up marital assets, including retirement accounts. When beginning the divorce process, it’s important to understand how Massachusetts courts will value and divide IRAs so that you can formulate a plan to protect your most critical assets. As you’re navigating the Massachusetts divorce process, courts […]
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